Golf pro explains benefits of ‘warming up'

PORT ST. LUCIE ? Most pros get to the golf course two or three hours before teeing off to warm up for the game. I don't expect amateurs to get to the course that early, but do yourself a favor and get some warm up time in before beginning your round. By starting cold, you may rack up extra strokes at the first few holes.

I recommend arriving one hour before your tee time. The Saints Golf Course offers a small bucket of 30 balls and that should be plenty to practice your swing, and even get in some putting and chipping. Before any physical activity, stretch your muscles. In order to loosen up your shoulders, arms and hips, grip three of your irons together and practice your swing very slowly. The extra weight of the three clubs will warm those muscles and prepare you for your practice session. Do not grab the driver right away and start swinging, this will surely cause injury. Next, grab the pitching wedge and start hitting on the driving range. Also, be sure to practice some putting and chipping to get ready for your round.